Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Training Vancouver
When a person suffers sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. The difference between life and death often comes down to how quickly someone nearby can start CPR and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). These small, portable devices are simple to use and incredibly effective, but only if people know how to operate them correctly.
At Fundamental First Aid, we provide AED training in Vancouver that teaches individuals, workplaces, and community groups how to recognize cardiac emergencies and use an AED safely and confidently. AED training is included in every single first aid and CPR course we offer, giving all students the tools to act fast and save lives.
About Fundamental First Aid
Fundamental First Aid is a Red Cross and WorkSafeBC-approved training center located at 1868 Glen Dr #206, Vancouver, BC V6A 4K4.
We teach thousands of students each year from Downtown Vancouver, Mount Pleasant, East Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, and North Vancouver. Our instructors bring real-world experience from emergency response, healthcare, and safety education.
Whether you are a parent, employee, or health professional, our goal is to help you leave class feeling confident, prepared, and capable of saving a life when it matters most.
What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a medical device that delivers an electric shock to help reset a heart that has stopped beating normally. AEDs are designed to be used by anyone, even without medical training. Once turned on, the device gives clear voice prompts that guide you step by step through the process.
AEDs are now found in airports, schools, fitness centers, offices, and public spaces across Vancouver. They are also required in many workplaces under safety regulations. Learning how to use one correctly ensures you can act quickly and confidently if someone nearby experiences a cardiac emergency.
Why AED Training Saves Lives
When a person goes into cardiac arrest, their heart stops pumping blood to the brain and vital organs. CPR helps keep oxygen flowing, but only a defibrillator can restore the heart’s normal rhythm.
Every minute without defibrillation decreases a person’s chance of survival by about 10 percent. By using an AED within the first few minutes, survival rates can more than double.
AED training helps you:
- Recognize the signs of cardiac arrest
- Call for emergency help and retrieve an AED quickly
- Place pads in the correct positions on the chest
- Follow the AED’s voice prompts safely
- Continue CPR until professional responders take over
Even though AEDs are simple to operate, hands-on training builds confidence and reduces hesitation during a real emergency. At Fundamental First Aid, we believe everyone should know how to use one.
AED Training Included in Every Course We Offer
You do not have to register for a separate AED course at Fundamental First Aid. AED instruction is included in every first aid and CPR program we teach, so every student leaves with this essential life-saving skill.
AED training is part of:
CPR Courses (Levels A, C, and BLS)
Learn how to perform high-quality chest compressions and coordinate AED use during a cardiac emergency.Emergency First Aid and Standard First Aid Courses
Practice integrating CPR and AED skills into broader emergency care, including bleeding control and injury management.Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers
Master team-based AED operation and advanced resuscitation techniques for clinical settings.Occupational First Aid (OFA) Courses
Understand AED use in workplace environments and meet WorkSafeBC safety requirements.Corporate Group Training
Have your staff trained together in CPR and AED use at your workplace or at our Glen Drive facility.
Regardless of which program you choose, you will practice using AED training units that mimic real devices, complete with voice prompts and electrode pads. By the end of class, you will know exactly what to do and how to do it calmly and effectively.
Who Should Learn AED Use
AED training is for everyone. You do not need medical experience or a professional background to use one. Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any age, which is why learning to operate an AED is one of the most valuable skills you can have.
People who benefit most from AED training include:
- Parents and family members
- Teachers and childcare workers
- Coaches, lifeguards, and fitness instructors
- Security guards and first responders
- Construction and industrial workers
- Healthcare providers and office staff
- Community volunteers and caregivers
Even one trained person in the right place at the right time can make the difference between life and loss. At Fundamental First Aid, we make sure you are that person.
How AED Training Works at Fundamental First Aid
Our AED training in Vancouver combines simple instruction with hands-on practice. You will learn by doing, using realistic AED trainers and life-size mannequins that respond to your actions.
During your class, you will:
Learn how to assess a cardiac emergency and call for help
Practice attaching AED pads and following device prompts
Simulate real-life scenarios where quick action saves lives
Review safety steps such as clearing the area before a shock
Work with partners to build teamwork and confidence
Our instructors guide you through each step patiently and encourage repetition so the actions become second nature. You will finish the course knowing exactly what to do without hesitation.
Why Choose Fundamental First Aid
Students across Vancouver trust Fundamental First Aid because we combine professional instruction with real-world experience. Our training focuses on building confidence through practice, not memorization.
What sets us apart:
AED training included in every first aid and CPR course
WorkSafeBC- and Red Cross-approved programs
Experienced instructors with backgrounds in emergency care
Hands-on learning using the latest AED training equipment
Flexible schedules with weekday, weekend, and evening options
Convenient location near Science World with free parking and easy access to transit
Corporate group sessions for businesses and community organizations
We are committed to helping every student leave class ready to make a difference in a real emergency.
Common Questions About AED Training
No. AEDs are designed to be used by anyone. The device gives clear voice instructions and will only deliver a shock if needed. Training helps you feel confident following those steps.
While not mandatory for everyone, many workplaces and organizations are required by WorkSafeBC to provide AED training so that staff know how to use it. Our training meets those standards.
No. AED instruction is automatically included in every Fundamental First Aid course. You will learn to use an AED whether you take CPR, Emergency First Aid, or Standard First Aid.
Yes. Older children and teenagers can participate in Red Cross CPR and first aid programs that include AED training. It is a great way to introduce them to life-saving skills early.
Red Cross and WorkSafeBC certifications are typically valid for three years. You can renew your certification by taking a recertification course before it expires.
Areas We Serve
We are proud to provide AED training to individuals, families, and workplaces across the Greater Vancouver Area, including:
Downtown Vancouver
Mount Pleasant
East Vancouver
Fairview
Kitsilano
Commercial Drive
Burnaby
Richmond
North Vancouver
Our Glen Drive training center is easy to reach and designed for comfort and learning. Group training sessions are also available across the Lower Mainland.
Book Your Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Training Vancouver
Learn how to save a life in minutes.
Contact Fundamental First Aid today to register for a Red Cross-certified course that includes AED training. All of our first aid and CPR programs teach you how to recognize emergencies, perform CPR, and use an AED confidently when seconds matter most.
Locally owned. WorkSafeBC- and Red Cross-approved. Trusted by Vancouver residents, parents, and workplaces for AED training that saves lives.